SOHAR Port and Freezone: Driving Oman’s Clean Energy Transition

As the global push for decarbonisation accelerates, ports are emerging as pivotal players in clean energy trade. In Oman, SOHAR Port and Freezone is leading the charge, transforming into a hub for hydrogen production and green energy trade while supporting Oman Vision 2040’s goals for economic diversification and sustainability.

SOHAR Port: A Catalyst for the Clean Energy Revolution

Building Infrastructure for Clean Energy

The foundation of SOHAR Port’s success in clean energy lies in its advanced infrastructure, which integrates hydrogen production, energy efficiency, electrification, and carbon capture technologies.

Hydrogen Production at SOHAR

With industries producing commodities like ammonia and methanol—both heavily reliant on hydrogen—SOHAR is well-positioned in the global hydrogen supply chain.

• Hydrogen Connectivity: Links producers in Oman with key markets in Europe and Asia.
• Resource Efficiency: Incorporates carbon capture, utilisation, and storage (CCUS) to enhance sustainability.

Innovative Decarbonisation Projects

SOHAR is redefining port operations with groundbreaking projects to support decarbonisation efforts.

LNG Bunkering Facility: A First for MENA

SOHAR is building the Middle East and North Africa’s first liquefied natural gas (LNG) bunkering facility, a game-changer for maritime decarbonisation.

• Cleaner Fuels for Shipping: Reduces emissions from global shipping routes.
• Asset Repurposing: Utilises existing infrastructure to expedite the energy transition.

Hydrogen: The Cornerstone of Global Energy Transition

Hydrogen is a cornerstone of the clean energy future, and SOHAR plays a vital role in its production and export.

• Key Markets: Europe, Japan, and South Korea, with the EU targeting 10 million tonnes of renewable hydrogen by 2030.
• Global Connectivity: SOHAR’s infrastructure enables Oman to supply clean hydrogen to these regions, aligning with net-zero targets.

Economic Diversification and Oman Vision 2040

SOHAR’s initiatives support Oman Vision 2040’s emphasis on reducing hydrocarbon dependency while fostering economic growth.

Clean Energy Manufacturing Cluster

SOHAR is developing a clean energy tech cluster to boost non-hydrocarbon industries.

• Solar Technologies: Photovoltaic manufacturing, polysilicon production, and wafer technology.
• Advanced Batteries and Carbon Capture: Expanding Oman’s renewable energy manufacturing capabilities.
• Foreign Investment and Jobs: Attracting international investment and creating high-skilled employment opportunities.

Collaborating for Global Energy Security

International collaboration is central to advancing SOHAR’s clean energy goals.

Overcoming Global Hydrogen Challenges

Dr Abdullah bin Sulaiman al Abri, Vice-President of Sustainability, emphasizes the need for cross-border partnerships:

• Standardisation and Financing: Tackling regulatory and financial hurdles for large-scale hydrogen projects.
• Global Partnerships: SOHAR’s alliances with international players facilitate a unified hydrogen market.

Supporting a Low-Carbon Global Economy

SOHAR’s efforts go beyond hydrogen, encompassing innovations that enhance energy and resource efficiency, solidifying its leadership in clean energy trade.

Conclusion

SOHAR Port and Freezone is at the forefront of Oman’s clean energy revolution, leveraging innovation and global connectivity to support hydrogen production, decarbonisation, and economic diversification. By aligning its initiatives with Oman Vision 2040, SOHAR is positioning the Sultanate as a global leader in renewable energy and a hub for clean energy trade corridors.